In a significant diplomatic shift, Somalia has taken decisive action against the United Arab Emirates by severing all agreements related to critical sectors such as security and port operations. This decision reflects deeper tensions related to international recognition of Somaliland, a self-declared independent region that remains unrecognized globally, yet has become a focal point of investment from the UAE. As Somalia navigates its complex political landscape, this move underscores the broader implications of foreign influence in regional politics, particularly in the context of unity and sovereignty.
Somalia has formally annulled all agreements with the United Arab Emirates, including key deals concerning port operations, security cooperation, and defense, citing a series of “harmful actions” that threaten the country’s unity and sovereignty. This decision was announced by the Council of Ministers on Monday, with Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi stating on X that the move was prompted by “reliable reports and evidence” linking the UAE to activities deemed detrimental to the Somali Republic’s national integrity and independence.
The UAE has yet to issue a public response to Somalia’s official statement. Analysts suggest that Somalia’s announcement is closely related to Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland, a region that declared independence in 1991 but is not acknowledged by the global community. Independent Somalia analyst Abdinor Dahir noted that many Somalis perceive the UAE as an enabler of this recognition, leading to a wider backlash against its alleged support for separatist entities in the region.
Historically, the UAE has been at the center of controversies regarding its involvement in various conflicts across Africa, particularly now in Sudan, where it has faced accusations of backing the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Nevertheless, Abu Dhabi has consistently denied these allegations. Earlier this month, the UAE chose not to endorse a joint Arab-Islamic statement condemning Israel’s actions regarding Somaliland but did release a joint statement with the African Union emphasizing its support for Somalia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and stability.
Somaliland has emerged as a significant hub for Emirati investments over the past decade, with the strategic Berbera port under a 30-year concession to UAE company DP World. Recent reports indicate that Moscow has felt provoked by the UAE’s consolidating influence in its breakaway and autonomous regions. A U.S.-based think tank estimates that the UAE has invested approximately billion across East Africa, accounting for a substantial 60 percent of all Gulf investments in the region.
Compounding these tensions, reports emerged that Aidarous al-Zubaidi, the leader of Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council, traveled to the UAE via Berbera port, defying Saudi calls to attend negotiations in Riyadh. Following this political maneuver, Somalia’s immigration authority announced it was investigating what it deemed “unauthorized uses” of the nation’s airspace and airports.
Somalia operates under a federal system that affords significant autonomy to its member states, leaving uncertainty about how effectively the federal government’s decision will be implemented. Regions such as Puntland and Jubaland, which maintain close ties to the UAE, have recently clashed with the federal government over constitutional controversies and the management of upcoming elections. In response to the tensions with Mogadishu, Somaliland’s Minister of the Presidency, Khadar Hussein Abdi, expressed dismissal of Somalia’s claims, asserting that the UAE remains a trusted ally and vital partner for Somaliland’s development.
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